Peregrine falcons – heavy fines imposed on offenders in Spain

Two Spanish men have been have received fines of 50,000 Euros and 5,000 Euros for offences under Spanish ‘Organic Law 1995 (as amended)’ (Spain) in relation to the illegal trade and possession offences in peregrine falcons.

The fines were imposed following a protracted investigation by COS AGENTS RURALS CATALUNYA (Catalonia Rural Ranger Corps). Agents investigating the suspected laundering of peregrine falcons came across some UK issued permits for some of the falcons and asked the NWCU to verify their authenticity. NWCU officers found that although the permits were genuine, rings fitted to the falcons were forgeries. It was apparent that somebody had been matching genuine documentation to fake leg rings in an attempt to give the impression that the falcons were captive bred birds. Agents also used DNA profiling to prove that peregrines were not related to their alleged parents.

Andy McWilliam from the NWCU said, “I would like to praise our Spanish colleagues for their outstanding work in this case. I know that this has been an extremely difficult investigation, which necessitated the agents carrying out enquiries in Spain, Portugal and the UK. It shows what can be achieved through close co-operation between Enforcement Agencies throughout Europe”.

In addition to the financial penalties, agents seized 18 peregrines falcons, which were being illegally held. Agents are currently working closely with reputable establishments to re-home the falcons.